Buying in Central Ohio and want schools on point? You’re not alone. Whether you’re eyeing Dublin, Powell, Lewis Center, Westerville, Worthington, or Delaware—plus master-planned pockets like Evans Farm—school districts shape demand, pricing, and long-term value. Here’s the no-fluff guide I give clients before we tour.

1) District lines ≠ city limits

A “Powell” mailing address can be Olentangy, Worthington, or Dublin Schools depending on the street. Same in Lewis Center and Delaware. Before you fall for the kitchen, I map the parcel to the actual district, then sanity-check future boundary chatter so you’re not surprised after contract.

2) Olentangy (Lewis Center/Powell/Delaware/Evans Farm): capacity & comps

Olentangy remains a magnet thanks to facilities and consistent performance. That demand shows up in list-to-sale ratios and short days on market—especially around Evans Farm and popular elementary zones. Translation: prep for competitive offers and be picky about appraisal support.

3) Dublin City Schools (Dublin/parts of Columbus): amenities + resale

Dublin blends campus-style schools, activities, and proximity to Bridge Park. Homes here tend to hold value and resell fast when turnkey. If you’re payment-sensitive, we’ll target slightly older stock that needs light updating—smart equity plays without sacrificing schools.

4) Westerville & Worthington: value + commute wins

Westerville offers broad housing types—from Highland Lakes to cul-de-sacs near Uptown—plus easy access to Polaris and Easton. Worthington brings that classic neighborhood vibe, mature trees, and I-270/I-71 convenience. Both can be value sweet spots versus adjacent districts—great for buyers who want schools and a reasonable monthly.

5) Taxes, levies, and your monthly reality

Strong districts often invest via levies, which impact your escrow. I model current taxes and plausible levy scenarios before you write the offer—so your budget is based on reality, not wishful thinking. We’ll compare Dublin, Olentangy, Westerville, Worthington, and Delaware on a like-for-like payment basis.

Bottom line: In Central Ohio, school districts influence price, pace, and long-term demand. The win is matching your must-haves (schools, commute, budget, neighborhood feel) to the right micro-market—before you compete.

Touring this month in Dublin, Powell, Lewis Center, Westerville, Worthington, or Delaware? I’ll build your district-savvy search, flag pocket listings, and game-plan the offer.

[Contact Patrick Murphy, REALTOR® — Columbus, Powell & Dublin Expert]